Group: The Bearded Collie belongs to the herding/sheepdog group.
Height: The average male Bearded Collie reaches a height of 21 to 22 inches (53.5 to 55.9 cm), and the average female Bearded Collie reaches a height of 20 tp 21 inches (50.8 to 53.3 cm).
Weight: The average Bearded Collie weighs 40 to 60 pounds (18.14 to 27.2 kg).
Life Expectancy: The average Bearded Collie lives 12 to 13 years.
Good with Kids? Yes
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Colors: The Bearded Collie is usually born with a solid colored coat, which then lightens to a gray or cream, and then darkens to its adult color. Colors may be black, blue, brown, gray, slate gray, reddish fawn, sandy, and fawn. The Bearded Collie may have white markings on the chest, muzzle, tail and feet, and possible tan points as well.
Physical Traits: The Bearded Collie is hardy, active, strong, and agile.
Hair Type: The Bearded Collie has a thick, shaggy coat, with a dense, wooly, undercoat. The outercoat is weather-proof, and is composed of straight, rough, long hair. The shaggy part of the coat is thicker under the chin, hence the name ‘Bearded’ Collie.
Nicknames: The Bearded Collie is affectionately referred to as the 'Beardie.' This breed may also be known as the 'Highland Collie,' the 'Mountain Collie,' and the 'Hairy Mou'ed Collie.'
Bred For: sheep herding, droving
Personality / Temperament: The Bearded Collie is self-confident, lively, and intelligent. This breed has an exuberant, friendly personality. The Bearded Collie generally has high spirits, and is always alert and playful. This breed is devoted to its family, and some may be nervous or aggressive if uncomfortable. In a class of different dog breeds, the Bearded Collie might be considered the 'class clown.' The Bearded Collie gets along well with children, other household pets, and even strangers. This breed should be watched around young children because of its vigorous energy level and large size.
Origination: The Bearded Collie most likely descended from a group of six Polish Lowland Sheepdog breeds that were delivered to Scotland in 1514. These breeds were then were cross-bred with local Scottish dogs, resulting in a large breed that was capable of herding sheep and driving cattle on the Scottish plains. This new breed, which later became known as the Bearded Collie, was considered a prized possession of owners that were reluctant to give them up. However, this breed was eventually exported to England and America in the 20th century. One story of the breed involves a woman named Mrs. G. Olive Willison. She ordered a Shetland Sheepdog, but was delivered a Bearded Collie named Jeannie by mistake. Mrs. Willison fell in love with the breed, and bred Jeannie with another Beardie. These two Bearded Collies are the ancestors of the modern breed of Bearded Collie that we enjoy today. The Bearded Collie increased in popularity when one named ‘Potterdale Classic at Moonhill’ won best in show at Cruft’s, the world’s largest dog show, in 1989.
Maintenance / Special Needs: The Bearded Collie requries a relatively high level of maintenance, needing frequent, regular grooming, as their coat tends to mat easily. It is necessary to brush and comb your Beardie at least twice weekly, and to part its coat along the ridge of its back. The Bearded Collie needs regular exercise, and requires constant mental and physical stimulation. This breed is susceptible to arthritis and skin conditions.
Identifying Traits: The Brearded Collie is known for its thick, shaggy coat. Some famous Bearded Collies you may recognize include Cole, star of Disney's 'The Shaggy Dog,' and the Brady Bunch’s Beardie, 'Tiger.'
Ideal For: The Bearded Collie is great for families and gets along well with other animals. The Bearded Collie makes a good watchdog, and can adapt well to city life and cold climates.
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